East Mebon, Cambodia

The East Mebon is a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva in Angkor, Cambodia. The temple was built in the 10th century during the reign of King Rajendravarman who was the king of the Khmer Empire from 944 to 968.

Why visit East Mebon

The East Mebon is a smaller temple compared to Angkor Wat, however, it is quite unique and impressive.  The temple is famous for its monolithic free-standing statues of elephants and numerous carvings that have been beautifully preserved.

The East Mebon is not as crowded as Angkor Wat which creates a peaceful and relaxed experience. It’s quite enjoyable to leisurely walk around the ancient structures and marvel at the beautiful temple and statues.

About East Mebon

The East Mebon is a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva in Angkor, Cambodia. The construction of the temple was completed in the 10th century A.D. The temple was built close to the state temple of King Rajendravarman, Pre Rup, and in a similar architectural style.

When was it built?

The temple was built in the 10th century during the reign of King Rajendravarman who was the king of the Khmer Empire from 944 to 968.  The East Mebon was dedicated in 953 AD.

East Mebon is located on an artificial island

The East Mebon is located on an elevated ground that was an artificial island in the middle of the now dry East Baray.  East Baray was Angkor’s second-largest artificial reservoir of water (after the West Baray).   In the past, the temple was to be reached by boat.

What building materials were used?

Multiple materials were used to build East Mebon include stucco, brick, sandstone, and laterite (a clayey soil and rock material rich in iron and aluminum).  The East Mebon was built in the same style as Pre Rup, a Hindu temple located south of the East Baray.

Statues of elephants and lions

The temple is known for its impressive statues of elephants and lions. The monolithic statues of elephants are about two meters high and located at the corners of the temple complex on two levels. The entrance is decorated with the statues of lions.